Fiction with Chigozie Obioma

The Fiction Condition

This class will look at how fiction, in its truest form, hopes to mimic the structure of the human condition. We will look at how to build effective connection and disconnection between characters, and how these connections can lead to substantive change in the structure of a story. We will look at stories that can help us place our own characters in spaces where they are grappling with connections and disconnections, and the human struggle that can lead to that holy grail of fictional achievement: fictional truth. Each writer will workshop one piece during the retreat, a piece which I will read and proffer feedback on. The goal of the class, in a nutshell, is to help the writer find the tools and skills to deepen the strength of the characters in their fiction—whether it be short fiction or novel.

Each Day
We will workshop at least a story each class time (depending on the number of enrolled). During the class, we will also discuss different short pieces and excerpts that I feel will enhance the discussion of the stories slated for workshop on that day. There will be lots of jokes, ha!

Preparation
Please have a short story or novel excerpt—no more than 3500 words (should be significantly less) ready for the class to discuss at least three weeks before we convene. You will also need to read some pieces sent in advance—at least 2 weeks before the workshop for onward discussion during the retreat.

Supplies
writing paper and pens

Experience Level
Anyone who is serious about writing fiction that seeks to balance high conflict (writ large in plot) with deep characterization. It is better if you already have a body of short stories or novel that you are working on and looking to take to the next level with an eye toward publication.

About the Instructor

Chigozie Obioma was born in Akure, Nigeria. His two novels, The Fishermen (2015) and An Orchestra of Minorities (2019) were shortlisted for The Booker Prize and have been translated into 30 languages. He has an LA Times Book Prize, the prestigious Internationalerpris, FT/Oppenheimer Prize for Fiction, an NAACP Image Award and has been nominated for two dozen prizes for fiction. He was named one of Foreign Policy’s 100 Leading Global Thinkers in 2015 and served as a judge of the Booker Prize in 2021. He is the Helen S. Lanier Distinguished Professor of English and Creative Writing at the University of Georgia, and the program director of the Oxbelly Writers retreat. His third novel, The Road to the Country, was published in 2024.

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Fiction with Chigozie Obioma

The Fiction Condition

About the Instructor

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